PM Modi Reflects On The Lessons From The 2002 Gujarat Riots In A Candid Interview

In a candid conversation with AI researcher and podcaster Lex Fridman on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his reflections on the 2002 Gujarat riots. He identified the ability to completely stop riots in a volatile state like Gujarat as the most significant lesson he learned from that period.

This marks the first time since becoming the Prime Minister that Modi has publicly addressed the 2002 violence. Recalling the turmoil, he emphasized the long-term peace Gujarat has maintained since the incident.

“The most important thing is, in Gujarat, where riots used to happen every year, but after 2002, in 22 years, there hasn’t been a single major riot. Gujarat remains completely peaceful,” Modi said.

He pointed out the state’s remarkable transformation from a region marked by annual communal violence to one of stability.

Context Of The 2002 Violence

Reflecting on the intensity of the violence, PM Modi recalled other major events of the time, such as the Kandahar hijacking, the attack on the Indian Parliament, and the September 11 attacks. “You can imagine how tense and volatile the situation was,” he remarked.

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Modi also dismissed the notion that the 2002 Gujarat riots were the largest in the state’s history, calling this perception “misinformation.”

He explained, “Before 2002, Gujarat witnessed over 250 significant riots. The riots in 1969 lasted nearly six months. So there was a long history, long before I was in the picture.”

The Rule Of Law And Judicial Oversight

PM Modi underscored the importance of the rule of law in the aftermath of the violence.

He highlighted how the judiciary thoroughly investigated the incident, despite political opposition and relentless efforts to implicate his administration.

“At that time, our political opponents were in power, and naturally, they wanted all allegations against us to stick. Despite their relentless efforts, the judiciary analysed the situation meticulously twice and ultimately found us completely innocent. Those who were truly responsible have faced justice from the courts,” Modi explained.

Strategy For Long-Lasting Communal Harmony

The Prime Minister attributed Gujarat’s lasting peace and communal harmony to the shift in political strategy.

He emphasized the replacement of the politics of appeasement with the politics of aspiration. “Because of this, anyone who wishes to contribute joins us willingly. We’ve continuously strived to turn Gujarat into a well-developed state. And today, Gujarat is actively contributing towards building a developed India as well,” he said.

Praise For Fridman’s Research Effort

Throughout the three-hour interview, Modi also expressed appreciation for Lex Fridman’s diligent preparation. He praised the AI researcher for his extensive research and deep dive into the complexities of every conversation.

“I personally feel you’ve put in tremendous care. You’ve done extensive research and have dived deeply into every small detail. So I think you’ve done very well, and all the efforts you’ve put in during our conversation and in all your conversations are appreciated,” Modi said.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged Fridman’s sincere effort to understand India. “I feel you’re trying to deeply understand India. That’s why I strongly feel there’s genuine honesty in your sincere effort to uncover the truth. And for that sincere approach, I genuinely congratulate you,” Modi concluded.

Conclusion: Gujarat’s Transformation Into A Model State

PM Modi’s reflections during the interview revealed how India’s leadership learned from the past and worked toward creating a peaceful, prosperous future for Gujarat.

The state’s transformation is now a testament to the power of leadership, judicial oversight, and a commitment to communal harmony, serving as a model for the rest of the country.